This article sponsored by Lysol.® The number-one disinfectant brand recommended by
pediatricians (based on a national survey
among U.S. pediatricians), Lysol understands
the importance of your family’s health. To
help keep your house and family germ-free,
Lysol offers a selection of products designed
to help kill 99. 9 percent of germs on everyday surfaces. Using Lysol products can help
protect your family from even the nastiest
germs, including the flu virus, rhinovirus,
rotavirus, norovirus, RSV and food-borne
bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella.
Home is where
the germs are
MANY PARENTS THINK THAT their children are usually exposed to cold-and flu-causing viruses and bacteria while they’re in day care or playgroups.
But in reality, it’s at home where problems can be found. Many surfaces in the
home can be contaminated with the flu virus during cold and flu season. Here
are some tips to help you keep your kids and your home cold- and flu-free
this year.
Eat a balanced diet
The right foods boost your immune system’s illness-fighting power during
cold and flu season. Encourage your child to maintain a healthy diet, packed
with immunity-boosting foods, such as fish, citrus fruits and leafy vegetables,
to keep his or her immune system strong and healthy.
Practice good hygiene habits
Hand washing: According to the Centers for Disease Control’s “Ounce of Prevention” campaign, hand washing is the most effective way to help prevent the
spread of illness-causing bacteria.
Elbow trap: Sneezing and coughing
into your hand is a great way to spread
germs. To help keep hands germ-free,
teach your child to cough and sneeze
into the crook of his or her elbow.
Bright smile: In addition to regular
visits to the dentist, teach your child
to brush at least twice a day for two
minutes. Set a timer or find a song for
your child to brush to.
Regularly disinfect surfaces
A recent study from the University of Virginia found that the flu virus
can live on surfaces for days. Protect
your family by cleaning surfaces
with a disinfectant spray formulat-
ed to help kill cold- and flu-causing
viruses and bacteria.
Playgroups: The home is one of
the germiest places for families and
a playgroup. Spray or wipe shared
toys with a disinfectant, then rinse
them in warm water and let air-dry.
Encourage kids to wash hands before
and after playtime.
